Bill > H4728

This bill amends the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to clarify that members of the General Assembly must receive copies of records or documents at no charge when their request is related to their legislative duties. The bill modifies existing provisions about public body record fees, maintaining the current guidelines that fees cannot exceed the actual cost of search, retrieval, and redaction, with fees based on the prorated hourly salary of the lowest-paid employee capable of fulfilling the request. The amendment specifically changes the language from "may receive" to "must receive" copies at no charge for legislative-related requests, ensuring that state legislators can access documents necessary for their official work without incurring costs. The bill preserves other existing provisions about fee structures, such as uniform copy charges, electronic format considerations, and the ability to waive fees when the request primarily benefits the public. The legislation will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4728&session=126&summary=B